Egypt is formulating a counterproposal to Trump’s Gaza plan, advocating for Palestinian-led reconstruction without displacing residents. President Sisi plans to finalize this strategy following an Arab League summit. The plan suggests excluding Hamas, enlisting foreign companies, and deploying international forces for security, despite opposition from Israel and some Arab nations.
Egypt is actively formulating an alternative plan to oppose US President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal for the displacement of Gaza’s population. This plan may involve the establishment of a Palestinian-led committee for the reconstruction of Gaza, potentially utilizing foreign companies. Importantly, both Egypt and Jordan have strongly rejected Trump’s suggestion for their countries to absorb Palestinian refugees.
The proposed plan seeks to reconstruct the war-torn Gaza Strip without displacing residents. Egyptian President Abdelfattah al-Sisi intends to postpone his upcoming visit to Washington until after the Arab League summit on February 27, allowing him time to shape a well-supported vision for Gaza.
Sources indicate that the Egyptian counterplan revolves around a Palestinian committee managed by the Palestinian Authority (PA) and excluding Hamas. This committee would oversee the extensive reconstruction efforts estimated to cost tens of billions, necessitating contracts with Egyptian and other foreign firms.
International forces may be requested to ensure the security of reconstruction efforts, although this remains controversial. Several nations oppose deploying military troops in Gaza, complicating the plan’s execution. Additionally, dismantling militant infrastructures, such as tunnels, could confront legal and operational challenges.
The Israeli government has expressed clear opposition to the plan, preferring to avoid direct Palestinian governance in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has cited that maintaining control over the region is crucial, supporting Trump’s perspective for a US takeover of Gaza.
Recent statements from UAE ambassador Yousef Al-Otaiba have introduced divisions within Arab positions regarding the plan. Despite efforts at Arab unity against Trump’s proposal, concerns arise about potential disagreements, particularly given the UAE’s evolving relationship with Israel following the Abraham Accords.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with a substantial human toll from the recent conflict. According to Gaza health ministry reports, over 61,000 individuals have lost their lives during the 15-month war, with the entire population of 2.3 million facing displacement and loss of critical infrastructure such as hospitals and schools.
In summary, Egypt’s alternative to Trump’s plan for Gaza emphasizes reconstruction without population displacement, focusing on a Palestinian-led initiative while seeking international support. Despite opposition from Israel and complexities surrounding foreign military involvement, Egypt aims to rally Arab backing for a feasible solution to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
